Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters); and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, "Hail, King of the Jews!" They struck his head with a reed, spat upon him, and knelt down in homage to him. After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.

Mark 15:16-20

When we walk with Jesus we too take up the cross. We too will receive the ridicule of the world for identifying ourselves with the Savior. Yet, if we stay true to Jesus, our lives will be transformed, and our testimony and witness will have an influence on the lives of family and friends around us. Jesus invites you to take up His cross. Have you?

Following Jesus costs more than anything,

except not following him.

Our Daily Bread – April 8, 2004